Steph Curry shares how Draymond Green ejection ‘lit a fire' for Warriors in win

As the clock ticked down in the third quarter of a tense game, the atmosphere inside Chase Center crackled with energy. Fans held their breath as Draymond Green, a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors, was ejected for shoving Suns center Khaman Maluach. The Warriors were down by 10 points, and the stakes were high. But instead of faltering, the team rallied. Steph Curry, ignited by the moment, exploded for 18 points in the third quarter, leading the Warriors to a thrilling comeback victory over the Phoenix Suns, 116-113.

What Happened

On November 2, 2026, the Golden State Warriors faced off against the Phoenix Suns in a game that turned pivotal after Green's ejection early in the third quarter. With the Warriors trailing 67-57, Green's aggressive play led to two technical fouls, forcing him to leave the game. This moment could have derailed the Warriors, who had already struggled with a rocky start to the season, but instead, it became a catalyst for a remarkable turnaround.

Steph Curry, who had been quiet in the first half with just nine points on 2-of-7 shooting, quickly found his rhythm. He opened the third quarter with a 3-pointer just 15 seconds in, igniting a scoring frenzy that saw the Warriors net 42 points in that quarter alone. Curry finished the night with a game-high 34 points, marking his third consecutive game scoring over 31 points.

“We know what he brings, and he lit a fire underneath us to respond,” Curry said post-game, emphasizing the importance of Green's presence even when he was sidelined. His words reflected a team ethos built on resilience and mutual support. The Warriors not only showed their offensive prowess but also their depth, with several players stepping up in Green's absence.

Key Contributions

The Warriors' bench played a crucial role in the comeback. Charles Bassey scored a career-high 19 points, while Brandin Podziemski added 20. Yaxel Lendeborg, fresh off a 37-point outing against the Clippers, contributed 16 points, five rebounds, and five assists. This collective effort highlighted the team's depth and versatility, essential traits for a championship-caliber squad.

“Obviously, like you said, I got it going, but it was everybody,” Curry acknowledged. His humility underscores the spirit of teamwork that defines the Warriors. Each player recognized the urgency of the situation, especially against a Phoenix team that had come into the game with a chip on their shoulder, eager to secure a win after a slow start to the season.

The Warriors faced a formidable opponent in the Suns, who were coming off a few days of rest. Curry noted that many of his teammates were playing on the second night of a back-to-back, which added to the challenge. “We just tried to, as they say, weather the storm,” he explained, emphasizing the need for strategic execution amidst adversity.

Community Impact

The Warriors' rallying cry resonates beyond the court, echoing through the community. Fans in Atherton and surrounding areas have rallied around the team, celebrating not just the victory but the values of perseverance and teamwork. The Warriors' journey reflects the broader narrative of overcoming challenges, a sentiment that resonates deeply with families striving for stability and success in their own lives.

Local businesses have also felt the impact of the Warriors' resurgence. Increased viewership translates to more patrons at sports bars and restaurants, creating a vibrant game-day atmosphere. The community thrives on the energy brought by the team, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents.

In a time when many families face their own struggles, the Warriors' story serves as a reminder of the power of dedication and support. The players exemplify commitment, not just to their craft but to each other, creating a model for families aiming to cultivate strong, lasting relationships.

Moreover, the Warriors have actively engaged with the community through various outreach programs and events. From hosting youth basketball clinics to supporting local schools, the team has made a concerted effort to give back, reinforcing their connection with fans. This engagement is particularly meaningful in a community like Atherton, where families value education and sportsmanship.

Voices from the Community

Local residents have expressed their excitement about the Warriors' recent performances. “It’s incredible to see how they bounce back,” said lifelong fan Maria Gonzalez, who has been attending games with her family for years. “The energy in the arena is palpable, and it feels like we’re all part of something bigger.”

Another fan, Kevin Tran, a high school basketball coach, noted, “The Warriors are a source of inspiration not just for young athletes but for the entire community. Their resilience teaches us valuable lessons about facing adversity.”

This sentiment is echoed by local youth players who look up to Curry and Green as role models. Many young athletes in Atherton aspire to emulate their work ethic and team spirit, which are essential in both sports and life.

Looking Ahead

As the Warriors continue their five-game winning streak, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum. The team, now 5-3 after an initial 0-3 start, is looking to build on this success. They have shown resilience in the face of adversity, and the chemistry among players is palpable.

Coach Steve Kerr will likely emphasize the importance of staying grounded and not taking any opponent lightly. With the season still young, the Warriors must remain vigilant, harnessing the energy from their recent triumphs while preparing for upcoming challenges. The team’s depth will be critical as they navigate a grueling schedule ahead.

In the coming weeks, the Warriors will face several tough opponents, including the defending champions and a rising young team that has been making waves in the league. Each game will test their resolve and ability to adapt, especially with the unpredictability of injuries and player performance.

For fans and families in Atherton, the Warriors' journey is more than just a series of games. It’s a testament to the values of hard work, unity, and the pursuit of excellence—qualities that resonate deeply in the community. As the season unfolds, the hope is that the Warriors continue to inspire both on and off the court, reminding us all of the strength found in togetherness and perseverance.